Extreme heat is more than a summer nuisance. California’s new tool helps residents identify potential dangers early and take action to stay safe.
In a recent Government Technology article, California introduced CalHeatScore, a new tool that forecasts and ranks the risk of heat-related illness on a daily basis. Using a 0-to-4 scale, the system helps residents understand when conditions are most hazardous, with a score of 4 indicating a severe risk. The platform also provides maps, safety tips, and locations of nearby cooling centers.
From the article:
CalHeatScore does more than rate the hottest days. It can provide information about nearby cooling centers, according to the governor’s statement, along with tips for staying safe and how to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses.
Launched as part of Governor Gavin Newsom’s Extreme Heat Action Plan, the tool is supported by $32.4 million in funding for 47 communities, aimed at protecting vulnerable populations from the growing threats of extreme heat. CalHeatScore responds to both climate change and federal budget cuts in weather monitoring, reflecting a broader trend toward using data dashboards to inform public health responses.
